Skip advert
Advertisement

Volkswagen Golf (Mk7 2013-2020) review – design

The Volkswagen Golf defines the family hatchback class, for good reason

Evo rating
RRP
from £17,785
  • Quality, space, refinement, performance
  • Everyone’s got one

How do you sum up a design as familiar as the Golf's? Some might use the word "boring", and it's true that there are plenty of rivals offering more intriguing shapes, but pragmatically few of the Mk7 Golf's rivals will age anything like as well and even fewer can trace their family lineage so consistently back through the decades.

Advertisement - Article continues below

Instantly recognisable, the Golf’s never been too radical a looker and this one is no different. It’s a handsome car though, the bold crease under the door handles and neatly detailed front and rear lights are nice touches. There are even some surprises; the designer’s playfulness is apparent in those headlights, where a couple of VW emblems form part of the unit. GT and R-Line models really up the visual appeal, adding more sporting looks and bringing bigger wheel options.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Thought you couldn't improve on the Alpine A110? Ravage had other ideas and we've driven the result – car pictures of the week
Ravage A110 Group 4
Features

Thought you couldn't improve on the Alpine A110? Ravage had other ideas and we've driven the result – car pictures of the week

In the latest issue of evo, we drive Ravage’s stunning A110 Group 4 in the French Alps – these are our favourite shots
21 Feb 2026
2026 VED car tax: what you'll be paying
2026 car tax
Advice

2026 VED car tax: what you'll be paying

The latest car tax changes explained, including new pricing for EVs and hybrids and increased prices for higher-emission vehicles
19 Feb 2026
The all-new Audi RS5 is a practical estate car with McLaren power
Audi RS5
News

The all-new Audi RS5 is a practical estate car with McLaren power

The RS4 might have met its end, but now Audi Sport has launched its replacement with the all-new V6-powered RS5
19 Feb 2026